Those Bendix hubs probably are off topic as I do not recall them having much to do with vintage lightweight bikes but another Automotive company Tolkeim did manufactuer a muiltigear set up which was pretty novel (especially with recent discussions of chain line) The Tolkeim unit had teeth which popped out from a plate creating larger and smaller gears with the chain staying in one plane. We had 100 or so bikes(all 19'' lugged Japanese frames with 27'' wheels) built with these but could not get any dealers to take them, even with severe bike shortages due to Fuel crisis. Even Oscar Juner (American Cyclery)the denizen of our ''close out bin'' could not be persuaded to take even one at $50 Sale Price! Anyone out there have a bike with this unit , or maybe I should say anyone seen one other than me?
Bob Freitas
sunny MILL VALLEY,
CA USA